Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices in truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 is the most often used scripture verses at weddings, although we can assume the apostle Paul did not write them with this in mind. The people of Corinth were an impatient, discontented, envious, inflated, selfish group, unmindful of the feelings and interests of others. These verses were meant to contrast their sinful attitudes with the characteristics of true love, which we now use as a practical guide in marriage—shifting us from a self-centered, emotional state to a series of selfless decisions.
Whether we’re married or single, young or old, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 applies to all of us, and how we are expected to interact with others. However, for this devotional, we will use these verses in the context of marriage as an example.
Love is patient…in giving our spouse room to make mistakes, process situations, and/or express feelings.
…love is kind. Small, thoughtful acts of kindness without being asked or expecting something in return is the beat of a selfless heart. When disagreements occur (and they will), rather than trying to with an argument, we should seek to build a bridge of respect and compromise.
It does not envy…We should celebrate our spouse’s successes rather than fostering an environment of competition. Seek ways in which to uplift, encourage, and support.
…it does not boast, it is not proud. Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall.” This is antithetical to humility and a selfless spirit—and the quickest way to put a wedge between two people.
It does not dishonor others…We should always have a heart to uplift our spouse in the company of others. Protect their dignity at all costs. Never speak ill of them or make them the punchline of a joke in public or with friends and family.
…it is not self-seeking. We need to shift our mindset to put our spouse’s needs above our own—to serve them as Christ served the church.
…it is not easily angered. More often than not, an angry or defensive reaction comes from a separate issue—hurt, frustration, exhaustion. Proverbs 15:1 tells us, “A gentle answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs up wrath.” Or if your science minded, consider Newton’s Law—for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
…it keeps no record of wrongs. Forgiveness is the cornerstone of our Christian faith—and it’s non-negotiable. We are called to forgive as Christ forgave us and died for our sins. Matthew 6:14-15 makes this clear: “For if you forgive others their offenses, your heavenly Father will forgive you as well. But if you don’t forgive others, your Father will not forgive your offenses.” Failure to do so has eternal consequences. When we keep a record of wrongs, we delight the enemy and grieve the Lord.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with truth. We should always speak truth with a heart of love, desiring growth and connectedness. Let the light of Christ heal what the enemy prefers to let fester in the dark.
It always protects…We should strive to create a safe physical, emotional, and spiritual harbor where our spouse feels secure to express vulnerabilities.
…always trusts. Choose to see the best in each other rather than jump to erroneous conclusions. Give your spouse the benefit of the doubt.
…always hopes. Every day, most especially in difficult seasons, we should remember that our spouse is a gift from God. We need to treat him or her as such.
…always perseveres. Regardless of the trials that come our way, we need to stay committed to the covenant relationship by depending on the Lord to see us through.
When we anchor ourselves daily in God’s Word and seek to make selfless choices rather than be a victim to our feelings, we will progressively move closer to the Lord and to each other. Our marriage should point to Him, bringing Him honor and glory.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the gift of Your scripture to help us grow in love and faith, and Your Holy Spirit to remind us. We will fail at times, but because of Your mercy and grace, we can overcome. Help us to grow in all our relationships so that we may bring honor and glory to You with how we live our lives.
